The Search for a Solution
Carol, determined to find the best possible treatment for her daughter, began researching various options across the United States, consulting doctors in Boston, Chicago, and New York. Each recommended a series of at least six surgeries, with each procedure costing around $40,000 — an overwhelming amount for the family.
Carol’s primary goal was to have Luna’s birthmark removed before she started school to protect her from potential bullying or social stigma. However, the challenges were immense, both financially and emotionally.
Despite the difficulty, Carol decided to share Luna’s story with the world to raise awareness about congenital melanocytic nevus. She created an Instagram page to provide insight into their lives, and soon Luna’s story garnered international attention.
A Ray of Hope from Russia
Luna’s story reached Dr. Pavel Borisovich Popov, a renowned surgeon-oncologist in Russia. He contacted Carol and offered a pioneering treatment not available in the United States called photodynamic therapy. Although the treatment was expensive, costing around $70,000, the family managed to raise the funds through a public fundraiser.
“Everybody thinks I’m crazy to go to Russia, but I have done a lot of research and gained advice from several doctors and I really think that this is the best option for Luna right now,” Carol explained to SWNS in 2019.
